This season your most important – and probably most expensive - purchase will be a new winter coat. But choosing one that will last and keep you up-to-date with the trends for more than a year can be difficult.

With the catwalks pumping out bold styles, exaggerated prints and voluminous shapes at the recent fashion weeks, choosing between a raglan sleeve and a empire-line can seem like a minefield.

And as the credit crunch worsens, it's no wonder we're struggling to make a decision with our purses feeling the pinch.

But you can wrap up and look like a million bucks without forking out wads of cash by signing up for a free coat consultation which gives you an expert's opinion.

Fed-up fashion-lovers can find their perfect winter coat without feeling the obligatory guilt that comes every time we splash the cash in the current economic crisis by heading down to John Lewis.

The 'dream coat consultation's' motto is choose a coat that will last for a few seasons by spending that little bit extra on a longer-lasting version, rather than a cute pea coat that may look fabulous now but won't be fashion-forward come 2009.

Consultations last for around an hour and on arrival you will be introduced to someone who will soon hold a place close to your heart - your very own personal shopper.

The consultation kicks-off with a one-on-one chat with the shopping expert, who will quickly identify your body shape and find out what you need from your perfect cover-up.

Whether it's for looking smart at the office or for walking the dog in, you will soon discover what works best for your figure - from how hard-wearing you need the fabric to why a bubble coat will simply drown a waif-type.

Your new best friend then takes you around the store, rifling through the rails and picking out styles for you to try on.

And the best part of the experience is your personal shopper will introduce you to styles you would never have tried on before... So get prepared to say goodbye to your familiar double-breasted trench and hello to your cute cocoon.

TOP 5 TIPS FOR CHOOSING A WINTER WARMER:

1. If you're a 'column' (tall and slender) steer clear of balloons and raglan sleeves - friends will be unable to find you in all the fabric and you'll have shoulders that resemble a stocky rugby player.

2. If you're a 'curve' (top-heavy) opt for balloon or cocoon coats that will hide big bottoms and big-breasts and show-off your slimmer legs.

3. Complement your curves
As the weather gets colder, we tend to surrender our silhouettes to thicker fabrics, which can drown any trace of feminine shape. Look for a coat that not only keeps you warm, but also complements your curves. Choose a vivid colour such as red to really draw the eye.

4. Make the most of your legs
 A knee-length coat will draw attention to your calf and ankle, the slimmest and most flattering part of your leg. Finish off your look with some striking pattern tights or funky boots for serious catwalk cred.

5. Tailor your trend

Military styling makes a return this season but won’t suit everyone. While slim column shapes should look for a double-breasted number, if you’re broad on top, steer clear of epaulettes and shoulder pads.

The Fashion Advice service is available at all John Lewis branches*.

Call 08456 049 049 for details of your closest John Lewis.